A colectomy is also known as a bowel resection and is performed to remove part or all of your large intestine (or colon). This can be due to cancer, Crohn’s disease, colitis, or inflamed colon tissue or other issues affecting your large intestine. If you are scheduled to have a colectomy, here is what to expect during and after colectomy surgery.
General Overview Of Colectomy Surgery
During this surgery, Colorectal Surgical Associates of Kansas City removes a portion of the colon. If the surgery is to treat cancer, the portion of the intestine that appears to be cancerous will be removed. In addition, the surgeon will remove smaller parts on either side of the cancerous area. Next the doctor will remove any nearby lymph nodes. Lastly, the remaining parts of the intestine will be attached to each other.
The surgery may last anywhere from one to over four hours depending on the complexity and how much tissue needs to be removed.
This surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
2 Types Of Colectomy Surgeries
This surgery may be performed in two ways:
- Open surgery is performed with a large incision in the abdomen. The two ends of the colon are sutured or stapled together once the diseased part is removed. Sometimes the colon is brought up through the abdomen to the outside to form a colostomy.
- Laparoscopic surgery is performed by creating several small incisions. Then using a camera and a light, instruments are inserted into the incisions to remove any problematic areas of the colon and complete the surgery.
Recovering From Colectomy Surgery
After surgery, the recovery can look different for everyone. It depends on exactly why you needed the surgery and what was involved. The average time spent in the hospital is 3 to 4 days, but you must have a normal bowel movement to be discharged from the hospital.
You will receive clear instructions from Colorectal Surgical Associates of Kansas City about the following:
- How to manage your pain
- Taking care of your incision
- Avoiding foods that will stress your digestive system while you heal
- The warning signs of infection
- Limiting your activities and for how long
If you have a colostomy bag, you will learn how to properly care for it.
Follow a low fiber diet for the first month. Walking around is good as you recover, but don’t over do it. Most people can resume their normal activities after about 2 weeks after surgery.
You may find your bowel movements will be more frequent and loose at first. Avoid straining while moving your bowels and drink lots of water to ensure you’re hydrated.
When To Call Colorectal Surgical Associates of Kansas City
If you have a fever 100.4 or higher, contact your physician. Ask for assistance if you have redness, swelling or bleeding from your incision, pain that gets worse, shortness of breath, or vomiting.
Contact Colorectal Surgical Associates of Kansas City at (816) 941-0800 with any other questions about colectomy surgery or your recovery.